Here are the details of a press release sent to FRC Media News from the Office of Fall River Mayor Jasiel Correia II.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 9, 2017
The City of Fall River announces that the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project will be performing ground spraying, using the same EPA –approved spray as in previous years, in the area bordered by Dwelly-Montaup-Bates-Meeson and Laurel Streets between the hours of 2 am and 5 am on Friday August 11th.
This spraying is in response to finding the presence of the Asian Tiger mosquito in a recent collection by the State. This surveillance has been part of efforts to document the extent of the incursion of this species in Massachusetts. It is important to note that these findings do not constitute an imminent public health risk. Local mosquito-borne transmission of diseases associated with this type of mosquito is extremely unlikely at this time. Since the Asian Tiger is an aggressive daytime biter and can be a significant nuisance, spraying of the area where this mosquito was detected will take place.
Mayor Correia states, “Residents who live in the area may want to keep their windows closed and refrain from going outside between the hours of 2:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. In addition, caregivers should ensure that children, elderly relatives and friends as well as pets follow these guidelines.” He encourages people to go the State’s website at http://www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito to access materials on spraying and mosquito repellents. Mayor Correia would like to remind people, “By taking a few, common-sense precautions, as outlined below, you can help to protect yourself and your loved ones from mosquito bites and those diseases they can transmit.”
- Be Aware of Peak Mosquito Hours – The hours from dusk to dawn are peak biting times for many mosquitoes. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities that occur during evening or early morning. Otherwise, take extra care to use repellent and protective clothing.
- Clothing Can Helpreduce mosquito bites. Although it may be difficult to do when it’s hot, wearing long-sleeves, long pants and socks when outdoors and in areas of higher mosquito populations, and at peak biting times will help keep mosquitoes away from your skin.
- Apply Insect Repellentwhen you go outdoors. Use a repellent with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), permethrin, picaridin (KBR 3023), IR3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus [p-methane 3, 8-diol (PMD)] according to the instructions on the product label. DEET products should not be used on infants under two months of age and should be used in concentrations of 30% or less on older children. Oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years of age. Permethrin products are intended for use on items such as clothing, shoes, bed nets and camping gear and should not be applied to skin. It is important to follow the label directions on all insect repellents.
- Install or Repair Screens– Some mosquitoes like to come indoors. Keep them outside by having tightly-fitting screens on all of your windows and doors.
- Drain Standing Water– Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Limit the number of places around your home for mosquitoes to breed by either draining or getting rid of items that hold water. Check rain gutters and drains. Empty any unused flowerpots and wading pools, and change water in birdbaths frequently.
Fall River works closely with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) and other agencies and urges residents to educate themselves about mosquito protection and take appropriate measures to reduce their exposure to mosquitoes. Further information about mosquito activity in Massachusetts during 2017 can be found on the MDPH website at http://www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito. People can also call the Bristol County Mosquito Control Project at 508-823-5253 to find out what they are doing in the area and to request spraying of their property. Their website is www.mass.gov/eea/bristolcountymosquitocontrol
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